In a significant move to support the typhoon-stricken province of Catanduanes, the Department of Health in Bicol (DOH-5) has extended a P1 million logistical aid package. The aid was officially handed over to Governor Joseph Cua at the provincial capitol in Virac town on Monday, November 18, 2024. This assistance comes in the wake of the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Pepito, known internationally as Man-yi, which severely impacted the region over the weekend.
DOH-5 Regional Director Rodolfo Antonio Albornoz, during a briefing with the governor, emphasized the commitment of the health agency to fulfill the medical and health safety requirements of Catanduanes. He stated, “Rest assured that DOH will provide the needs. We have already augmented here, but to provide additional needs, we have almost P1 million worth of health response.”
The logistical support includes a variety of essential items such as medicines, jerry cans, hygiene kits, collapsible water containers, breastfeeding kits, aqua tabs, chlorine granules, disaster relief tents, cot beds, body bags, and water tanks, among others.
Furthermore, Albornoz announced that DOH-5 has allocated an additional P2 million specifically for the rehabilitation of health facilities damaged by the typhoon in Catanduanes. This initiative is part of the broader disaster response strategy of DOH-Bicol, which continues to offer medical services and health commodities to the affected areas.